Downtown Phoenix residential properties are a good buy today. But it’s not surprising that you might be a bit nervous about buying a property right now even if it is in Downtown Phoenix. As you probably know, Downtown Phoenix has been in revitalization mode for the last number of years until the economic crash stalled almost everything. The good thing is that the real estate bubble burst has reduced prices back to something that regular folk can afford. There are many one and 2 bedroom condos priced under $100k that are within walking distance to a light rail stop and there are some very nice Phoenix Historic Homeswhose prices have come back down into the low $200k. Most of these prices are around 50% less then they were 2 and 3 years ago but as they say, “that was then, this is now.” Home prices from 2 and 3 years ago have no baring on the value today. Seller’s hate to hear that but facts are facts. So what do you do now? Call me to see if there is a property out there that meets your needs and rest assured that you are getting a Native Phoenician that specializes in Downtown and Central Phoenix and really understands the market and the neighborhoods.
February 2, 2010
February 1, 2010
FHA 90 day rule
The recent HUD announcement stated the HUD was lifting the 90 day flipping rule effective 2/1/2010 and will not loan on a property that has not been owned by the current owner for more than 90 days. Until now, the current had to own the property for 90 days before FHA would insure the loan. This is for contracts effective 2/1/2010. It does not apply to contracts or loans already in existance. Again this waiver DOES NOT apply to existing loans or contracts. It applies to new contracts 2/1/2010 and later.
This 90 day waiting period has kept many buyers from purchasing the home they really wanted because they wanted to use FHA financing. Now they will be able to us FHA for many homes and condos in the valley.
January 27, 2010
44 Monroe in Phoenix
It was announced the other day that 44 Monroe, the 33 story luxury high rise condominium building is up for sale. Grace Developers sold only about 9 of the condos before the market fell out from under us and the project will be filing for bankruptcy soon. In the meantime, the remaining units will be auction off as one sale. This will remove some of the debt and Grace Communities from the project. The auction is currently scheduled for April and once complete, they should be ready to start selling the individual units again. It will be interesting to see what prices they put on the unit and what price the HOA monthly dues will be.
January 21, 2010
Tempe Urban Condos
There are many nice places to get a good buy on Urban condos in Tempe, among them is Northshore. This is a great community in a “U” shape so most of the condos have great views of the Tempe Townlake and pool area. Northshore has wonderful floor plans with balcony’s that are worth having and not those little balcony’s that you can only walk on. There is plenty of shopping just outside the front door and you’re only a mile from the Tempe Market Place. Not to mention, you’re just across the lake from ASU so it’s perfect for student and faculty alike.
Then there’s also Brigeview, a luxury high rise condos with all the extras. Located on the Southside of the lake and just a short walk to the ASU Sun Devil Stadium, this is one of Tempe’s newest and best communities. All the units have high-end finishes like granite counter tops and upgraded flooring. There’s an exercise room and a beautiful pool area. Walking distance to the Light Rail and Mill Ave not to mention, ASU.